Date Night on the Drive

Besides coffee within walking distance and a greatly (as in 60 minutes, each way, on a good day) reduced commute, the thing I was looking forward to most regarding my recent move back to the city from the ‘burbs was date night. (While I realize date night is doable no matter how suburban your surroundings, there’s something about leaving the house, sans car, that makes it extra sweet for me.) With our new home just off Commercial Drive, the hubby and I recently called in a babysitter (i.e., Grandma) and headed off for an adults-only night on the town—without leaving our brand-new ‘hood.

see. What’s dinner without a show first? The Rio Theatre, technically on East Broadway but literally a stone’s throw from the Drive, is famous (in Vancouver, at least) for independent, nostalgic and first-run films. Date night saw us settle into plush seats (with adjustable arms, perfect for getting cosy) with real buttered popcorn for Brigsby Bear, which I absolutely loved (Jay, I think, would have preferred to see Alien, playing later that night). Check the online calendar for shows and times. 1660 E. Broadway, Vancouver, 604-879-3456, riotheatre.ca

eat. Next up, dinner at La Mezcaleria, just north of First Avenue. Despite (or because of) frequently long lines, I’d been trying to die this Mexican resto—and it did not disappoint. From many perfect-for-sharing options we chose fresh and zesty Guacamole & Chips, De Ostion (crispy paprika-dredged oysters on avocado mash), De Puerco (sous vide Fraser Valley pork belly fried into “chicharron chips”) and LM’s signature Queso Fundido—a molten cheese fondue served in a volcanic-stone bowl (ours included spiced sautéed mushrooms). We also put in a solid team effort on a couple of mezcal and tequila flights. Salut! 1622 Commercial Dr., Vancouver, 604-559-8226, lamezcaleria.ca

play. With an hour-and-a-half left to enjoy, we headed to the Storm Crow for a few after-dinner drinks—and some friendly date-night competition. Besides a respectable wine, spirits, ciders and beer list (thirsty? Ask for a 24-ounce collectible Beerbarian stein foaming with your favourite ale. Brave? Roll for an infamous Random Shot with a 20-sided die), the tavern boasts a robust offering of board, card and role-playing games. We ordered from the two-player menu, and each won a game of Scrabble (best two out of three)? 1305 Commercial Dr., Vancouver, 604-566-9669, stormcrowtavern.com

Date night, well done. —Noa Nichol